The Senate has moved to punish Nigerians convicted of crimes abroad by suspending their international passports for at least ten years.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Abubakar Bello, aims to amend the Passport Act to discourage criminal conduct overseas and rebuild confidence in the Nigerian passport.
Senator Onawo Ogwoshi, who presented the bill, said it was necessary to protect Nigeria’s image. He said the misconduct of a few has brought embarrassment to many law-abiding citizens.
He noted that innocent Nigerians now face harassment, visa denials, and suspicion because of others’ crimes. He called the situation a national emergency.
The bill proposes that Nigerians convicted abroad will lose their passports for ten years after completing their sentence. Lawmakers said the move will send a clear message that Nigeria upholds accountability and integrity.
